Philadelphia Independence Blasts Sky Blue 4-1

The Philadelphia Independence traveled to New Jersey last night for the first time this season, earning a decisive 4-1 victory over 2009 WPS Champion Sky Blue FC. The Independence posted its highest scoring game of the season with four goals and as a result improve their record to 5-3-2.


Danesha Adams was a driving force for the Independence offense, earning her first start of the season and posting a goal and assist in the first 18 minutes of the match. Less than five minutes into the match, Amy Rodriguez beat the defense on the right wing and sent the ball across the goal for a crashing Adams, who buried the ball past Sky Blue’s backup keeper Amanda Luckenbill. Adams’ first goal of the season gave the Independence the 1-0 lead, and just ten minutes later, Rodriguez and Adams connected again to put the Independence ahead by two.

In the 17th minute, Adams found space in midfield and split the defense with a through ball to Rodriguez. With a defender on her heels, A-rod took a quick touch and nailed a shot top corner over the onrushing keeper. Rodriguez posted a goal and an assist the first time the Independence faced Sky Blue FC and matched that offensive performance with another goal and assist last night .

Sky Blue FC bounced back from the two goal deficit quickly, and in the 27th minute, Natasha Kai was fouled in the box, earning a penalty kick against Independence keeper Karina LeBlanc. Rosanna stepped up to take the kick and put it away, closing the gap to make it a 2-1 game. Despite a couple of strong chances for both teams in the remainder of the half, the score remained 2-1 at halftime.

The Independence struck early in the second half, with another offensive press from Adams. A ball slipped through to Adams on the right side of the six yard box, and her blocked shot found a waiting Joanna Lohman to slot the ball home and make it 3-1. Adams is credited with the assist, earning two assists and a goal for the night.

Karina LeBlanc had an outstanding performance in net, and the Independence defense allowed Sky Blue minimal chances in the second half. The Independence put the game out of reach with a final goal in the 74th minute by newcomer Tina DiMartino. It was Tina’s second goal in as many games with the team.

The Independence returns home next weekend to face the Washington Freedom in their third battle of the season. The teams are 1-1 in their first two contests and will be battling for the top spots in the league. Kickoff is scheduled for 6pm on Saturday, June 26th. Visit www.independencetix.com to get tickets and see the Independence in action!!

Courtesy: Philadelphia Independence Communications